Arsenal fans received a major lift today as star winger Bukayo Saka returned to full training at the Sobha Realty Training Centre, marking a significant step in his recovery from a hamstring injury that has sidelined him since December. The 23-year-old England international, who underwent surgery following a tear sustained in Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on December 21, participated in a competitive training match on Thursday, raising hopes of his imminent return to action.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed earlier this month that Saka would ramp up his rehabilitation during the international break, and the latest developments suggest the plan is on track. “He’s taken a massive step forward today,” a club insider reportedly said, noting that Saka completed a full session with the squad. Over the next few days, his progress will be closely monitored as Arsenal gradually reintroduce higher levels of intensity and competitiveness to ensure he’s match-ready.
Saka’s return couldn’t come at a better time for the Gunners, who are gearing up for a pivotal stretch of fixtures. Following the international break, Arsenal face Fulham in the Premier League on April 1, followed by a trip to Everton on April 5. However, the marquee event looms on April 8, when they host reigning European champions Real Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie. With Saka’s 22 goal contributions in 24 appearances across all competitions this season—still a team-high despite his absence since 2024—his presence could prove decisive against Carlo Ancelotti’s star-studded side.
“Bukayo is a game-changer for us,” Arteta said in a press conference earlier this week. “He’s been working incredibly hard to get back, and seeing him out there with the team again is a huge boost for everyone.” The Spaniard had previously hinted at Saka’s progress, noting before the break that the winger would soon be “passing the ball and shooting and running” in a competitive environment. Thursday’s session appears to have fulfilled that promise, with footage circulating online showing Saka moving freely and engaging in drills alongside teammates.
The timing of his return aligns perfectly with Arsenal’s ambitions to salvage a challenging season. Sitting 12 points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool with nine games remaining, their title hopes are slim, making the Champions League their most realistic shot at silverware. Saka’s absence has been keenly felt, with the team relying on the collective effort of players like Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard to fill the void. His return to the right flank could restore the attacking dynamism that made Arsenal one of Europe’s most feared sides earlier in the campaign.